A-Gay-Ny Aunt #30

Welcome to this week's edition of A-Gay-Ny Aunt.

I was asked:

I started a new job in lockdown. I haven't met any of my team in person yet and haven't even been on-site. I have social anxiety and am really worried about meeting my team.

Hello there,

You have many unknown variables at play here, right? Not having taken the daily commute or to have stepped foot in the office, not knowing what the office even looks like, never mind meeting lots of new people in person. So please, give yourself a break!

Imagine, it is like you are starting at the company all over again. But this time, in person.

I always find that I feel anxious when there are unknowns to a situation. The more you can find out in advance, hopefully the easier that first day will feel.

Here are a few thoughts that may help you.

Have a think about what might reduce your anxiety around this situation. For example, would it help to do your journey to the office before you officially go into the office? Or maybe meet up with one of your team members, either before the day or in reception on the day.

Before you go into the office, talk to your manager about how you are feeling. If you have any specific requests that will make your first few days a little easier, ask them. Discuss your on-site induction too, so you know what you can expect and when.

Talk to your team about that first day back in the office. Ask those that have been in the office before what it is like and key things you need to know. Gain as much insight as you can. It will put your mind at ease.

Contact HR or your wellbeing team (if you have one). Find out if they are planning any wellbeing related events that you could attend. 

A few practical thoughts here too.

Ideally, travel your route to work before your first day, so you know where you are going and how long it will take you. It will also highlight if there are any road closures that you might need to navigate around or parking related issues. 

Get your clothes, food, drinks and bag ready the night before. That will take the stress out of your first morning.

Get up a bit earlier on your first day, to make sure you have plenty of time. Your anxiety will peak if you are late and have had a stressful time before you even get to the office. Give yourself plenty of time for a good breakfast and make sure you arrive at the office a little early. Maybe arrange to walk in to the office with someone you know from your team.

Remember to breathe and stay hydrated throughout the day. The simple things.

The first 20 minutes may feel a bit awkward whilst you get through introductions and find your feet in the office. Rest assured, you wont be the only one feeling this way. Try to relax and enjoy your first day. 

Hope that helps,

Gina x

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Have your questions answered in A-Gay-Ny Aunt

A-Gay-Ny Aunt is a weekly column written by Gina Battye - about navigating work, relationships, family and feelings, your sexuality and gender and being your Authentic Self in a chaotic and often confusing world.

To have your questions answered anonymously in A-Gay-Ny Aunt, please DM Gina or send an email to [email protected]

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About Gina Battye

Gina Battye is a world-renowned Authenticity, Psychological Safety and LGBT+ Inclusion Consultant and Trainer for Multinational Corporations, Fortune 500s, TV, Film and the Global Press.

As a media friendly experienced expert, with an acting background, Gina's work has been featured widely in the media, including:

Sky News, BBC Radio, Forbes, Psychologies, Cosmopolitan.

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